Whitewater Safety Code

American Whitewater's Code of Safety

In five decades of service to the paddlers of America, AW's mission has been to conserve and restore America's whitewater resources and to enhance opportunities to enjoy them safely.

Safety Code and River Signals
Page at American Whitewater

The Safety Code has been prepared using the best available information and has been reviewed by a broad cross-section of whitewater experts. The code, however, is only a collection of guidelines; attempts to minimize risks should be flexible, not constrained by a rigid set of rules. Varying conditions and group goals may combine with unpredictable circumstances to require alternate procedures. This code is not intended to serve as a standard of care for commercial outfitters or guides.

It is recommeded that all paddlers review the Safety Code on a regular basis. It is also wise to familiarize yourself with or refesh your knowledge of Universal Standard River Signals.